Next Generation Fuels Act (H.R. 5089)
The Next Generation Fuels act was introduced by Congresswoman Cheri Bustos in August 2021. This piece of legislation paves the way for corn-based ethanol to be an important part of our nation’s renewable energy future.
The high-octane fuel standard this bill will establish allows corn-based ethanol to contribute to a new clean fuel economy.
One of the biggest concerns in rural Illinois is that our current energy policy chooses which renewable energies will win and which will lose. A policy like the Next Generation Fuels Act levels the playing field and allows fuels that can meet the standard to compete. The Next Generation Fuels Act provides clean energy and energy efficiency, while benefiting rural economies and Americans wanting cost-effective vehicles and fuels. This policy benefits all.
This policy is even a win for automakers. They would now certify their new vehicles to meet emissions and fuel economy standards using this new fuel. The high-octane fuel makes it easier for them to meet their goals because these engines will get more miles per gallon. That increased fuel efficiency reduces emissions. Using low carbon corn-based ethanol to build the new fuel decreases greenhouse gas emissions and improves air quality to benefit human health.
As a clean octane standard, the bill requires that sources of additional octane result in at least 40% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than unblended gasoline and sets new limits on toxic hydrocarbon aromatics. Corn ethanol is an effective, low-carbon octane source, providing the greatest fuel efficiency gains at the least cost to drivers while reducing GHG and tailpipe emissions.